The significance of Kanghwa treaty was that it made Korea an easy target for imperialistic target, such as Japan and Russia. Because China now cannot act as the "big brother" of Korea, no strong power resisted imperialstic powers from conquering. Furthermore, it opened Korea's ports which made it possible for powers to access Korea. It also allowed Extreaterritoriality of Korea by Japan, which finally leads to annexation of Korea.

The Kabo Reforms made it independent from Chna, and made it easier for Japan to try to take it over. Also, by trying to modrenize Korea and getting rid of Sinbun, there was less resistance from the annoying Yangbans who hold power. Now Japanese could take over completely with a puppet king, instead of tens of separate powers.

This Sino-Japanese war symbolizes Japanese overpowering of Korea, and made it the protectorate, officially making China an outsider instead of a big brother who had tributary relations with Korea. Now, Japan was able to "leagally" "protect" Korea instead of forcefully "imperializing,"

D Shim Seungdo(Eric) Timeline for Annexation of Korea